Dubai Metro Red Line Timings (2026)

One of the most common mistakes travelers make is assuming the Metro starts at the same time every day. In Dubai, the schedule changes significantly on Sundays and Fridays.

Day of the Week	First Train (Start)	Last Train (End)
Monday to Thursday	5:00 AM	12:00 AM (Midnight)
Friday	5:00 AM	1:00 AM (Next Day)
Saturday	5:00 AM	12:00 AM (Midnight)
Sunday	8:00 AM	12:00 AM (Midnight)

Important Timing Details:

• The “Midnight” Rule: When the RTA says the metro closes at midnight, that is when the last train reaches the final station. If you are at a station in the middle of the line (like Financial Centre), the last train might pass by at 11:30 PM. Always try to be on the platform 20 minutes before the official closing time.
• Sunday Late Start: If you have a 7:00 AM flight on a Sunday, do not rely on the Metro. It doesn’t open until 8:00 AM. You will need to book a taxi or use the RTA bus.
• Public Holidays: During Eid, National Day, or New Year’s Eve, the RTA often extends hours to 2:00 AM or even runs the metro 24/7. Always check the official RTA Twitter (X) account during these times.

2. Train Frequency: How long will you wait?

The Red Line is very frequent, so you don’t really need to carry a printed timetable. The time between trains (headway) depends on the “rush hour.”

• Peak Hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM): Trains arrive every 2.5 to 4 minutes. During these times, stations like Union and Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall get very crowded.
• Off-Peak Hours: Trains arrive every 7 minutes.
• Late Night (After 11:00 PM): The wait can be up to 10 minutes.

3. The Red Line Route: One Line, Two Destinations

A common point of confusion for new travelers is the “branching” of the Red Line. After you pass Jabal Ali Station, the line splits into two directions. You must check the digital screens on the platform to see where the incoming train is headed.

1. Destination 1: UAE Exchange. This branch goes toward the Jebel Ali industrial area.
2. Destination 2: Expo 2020. This branch goes toward Expo City Dubai and Dubai Investment Park (DIP).

Note: If you are heading from the Airport to the Dubai Marina (Sobha Realty), you can take either train, as both stop at the Marina. You only need to worry about the destination if you are going past Jabal Ali.

4. Major Stations & Latest Name Changes

The RTA frequently sells naming rights to stations. If you are looking for an old station name on a map, it might have changed. Here are the most important Red Line stops in 2026:

• Airport Terminal 3 & Terminal 1: Right inside the airport. Very convenient for tourists.
• Union & BurJuman: These are “Interchange” stations. This is where you jump off the Red Line to catch the Green Line (which goes to the historic Gold Souq and Deira areas).
• Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall: This station has a long, air-conditioned tunnel (the Metro Link) that takes you straight into the mall.
• ONPASSIVE: (Formerly Al Safa). This is near Safa Park.
• InsuranceMarket: (Formerly Mashreq/Sharaf DG). Located near Al Barsha.
• Al Fardan Exchange: (Formerly Al Khail).
• Sobha Realty: This is the main stop for the Dubai Marina. It also connects to the Dubai Tram.

5. How Much Does it Cost? (Nol Cards)

You cannot pay for the Metro with cash. You must have a Nol Card (a contactless smart card). You tap it at the gate when you enter and tap it again when you leave.

Which card should you buy?

• Silver Card (Recommended): Best for most people. It costs AED 25 (includes AED 19 credit). Trips start as low as AED 3.
• Gold Card: If you want to sit in the “Gold Class” cabin (leather seats, more legroom, less crowded). Fares are exactly double the Silver price.
• Red Ticket: Best if you are only in Dubai for one day and only plan to take 1 or 2 trips.
• Personal (Blue) Card: For residents, students, and senior citizens who get discounted rates.

Fare Zones:

Dubai is divided into 7 zones. The price depends on how many zones you cross:

• Within 1 Zone: AED 3
• 2 Adjacent Zones: AED 5
• More than 2 Zones: AED 7.50

Important Rules to Avoid Fines

Dubai Metro is famous for being one of the cleanest and safest in the world. This is because the rules are strictly enforced.

• No Eating or Drinking: This includes water and chewing gum. If an inspector sees you, it’s a AED 100 fine.
• The Women & Children Cabin: Men are not allowed in this section (marked by pink signs on the floor and ceiling). Fine: AED 100.
• Gold Class Cabin: Do not enter unless you have a Gold Nol Card. Fine: AED 100.
• Sleeping: Falling asleep at the station or on the train can result in a AED 300 fine.
• No Alcohol: Carrying visible bottles of alcohol or being intoxicated on the metro is a serious offense.

Traveling from the Airport (DXB)

If you are a tourist landing at Terminal 1 or 3:

1. Follow the “Metro” signs after clearing customs.
2. Buy a Silver Nol Card from the ticket office or the machines.
3. Luggage: You are allowed two suitcases (one large, one small). There are dedicated luggage racks in every cabin.
4. The Metro is much cheaper than a taxi. A taxi to the Marina might cost AED 100+, while the Metro costs only AED 7.50.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What time does the last metro leave Dubai Mall?

On a weekday, the last train toward the Airport usually passes through around 11:40 PM. On Friday nights, it’s closer to 12:40 AM.

Is the Dubai Metro free for children?

Children under 5 years old or under 90cm tall travel for free. They do not need a Nol card.

Can I use my Nol card on the bus?

Yes! Your Nol card works on the Metro, the Dubai Tram, RTA Buses, and even the Water Bus (abra). You can also use it to pay for RTA parking.

Is there Wi-Fi on the Metro?

Yes, there is free “UAE WiFi” provided by du. You just need a local or international mobile number to log in.

What should I do if I lose my Nol card?

If it’s a Silver or Red card, the balance is usually lost. If you have a registered Blue (Personal) card, you can report it missing and have the balance transferred to a new card.

How do I get to the Dubai Marina?

Take the Red Line to Sobha Realty Station. From there, you can walk across the bridge to the Marina or switch to the Dubai Tram to reach JBR or the Palm Jumeirah gateway.

Final Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Download the S’hail App: This is the official RTA app. It gives you real-time updates and tells you exactly which bus or train to take.
• Avoid the 8:00 AM Rush: If you don’t like crowds, try to avoid the metro between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM. It can be very “tight” as everyone heads to the office.
• Check Your Balance: Before you enter the gate, make sure you have at least AED 7.50 on your card. The gate won’t open if your balance is too low.

The Dubai Metro Red Line is truly the easiest way to see the city. It’s air-conditioned, fast, and gives you a great view of the skyscrapers along Sheikh Zayed Road.